Display device and manufacturing method thereof

Abstract

The application discloses a display device and a manufacturing method thereof. The display device comprises a first substrate, a second substrate, a barrier wall between the first substrate and the second substrate, and an electrochromic device in a containing space formed by the first substrate, the second substrate and the barrier wall. The barrier wall is formed by printing a first pre-solution on the substrate and then performing a cross-linking polymerization reaction to solidify. The barrier wall itself has certain flexibility and viscosity. The film tearing step is avoided when the barrier wall is made of double-sided adhesive material, the manufacturing efficiency is improved, and the electrolyte connection between adjacent electrochromic devices caused by the inconsistent height of the barrier wall during the film tearing process is avoided, thereby avoiding color crosstalk during coloring.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of display technology, and in particular to a display device and its manufacturing method. Background Technology

[0002] Electrochromism is the phenomenon of stable and reversible color changes in electrochromic materials under the influence of an applied electric field. Electrochromic display devices made using electrochromic materials have advantages such as no blind angle, wide operating temperature range, low driving voltage, and rich colors, and have broad application prospects in fields such as transparent displays, paperless displays, product labels, and flexible displays.

[0003] Electrochromic display devices typically consist of multiple pixelated electrochromic devices. During manufacturing, barriers are used to separate adjacent electrochromic devices. Current manufacturing processes use double-sided adhesive materials for these barriers, requiring protective films. However, removing these films can cause inconsistencies in barrier height, leading to electrolyte leakage between adjacent electrochromic devices during electrolyte filling and resulting in color crosstalk during coloring. Summary of the Invention

[0004] A first aspect of the present invention provides a display device, the display device comprising:

[0005] First substrate;

[0006] The second substrate is disposed opposite to the first substrate;

[0007] A barrier wall is located between the first substrate and the second substrate; the barrier wall has a grid-like structure, and the barrier wall, together with the first substrate and the second substrate, forms multiple accommodating spaces.

[0008] Multiple electrochromic devices are located in their respective accommodating spaces;

[0009] The barrier is formed by a cross-linking polymerization reaction of a first pretreatment solution; by weight, the first pretreatment solution includes: 8-10 parts of a first cross-linking agent, 0-2 parts of a first polymer, 8-10 parts of a first solvent and 0.024-0.05 parts of a first initiator.

[0010] The barrier formed by the cross-linking polymerization reaction has a certain degree of flexibility and viscosity, and can be directly used for bonding the first substrate and the second substrate. This avoids the film-tearing operation when using a barrier made of double-sided adhesive material, thus improving manufacturing efficiency. At the same time, it avoids the problem of inconsistent barrier heights, electrolyte leakage, and color crosstalk caused by electrolyte connection between adjacent electrochromic devices during the film-tearing process.

[0011] In some embodiments of the present invention, the first solvent is propylene carbonate or acrylic monomers. Propylene carbonate or acrylic monomers have high boiling points, which ensures that they are not easily volatilized under both room temperature and heating conditions.

[0012] In some embodiments of the present invention, the electrochromic device includes:

[0013] The first electrode is located on the side of the first substrate facing the second substrate;

[0014] The second electrode is located on the side of the second substrate facing the first substrate;

[0015] An electrochromic layer is located on the side of the first electrode opposite to the first substrate;

[0016] An ion storage layer is located on the side of the second electrode opposite to the second substrate;

[0017] The electrolyte layer is located between the electrochromic layer and the ion storage layer;

[0018] The electrolyte layer is formed by a cross-linking polymerization reaction of the second pretreatment solution. By weight, the second pretreatment solution includes: 1-2 parts of a second cross-linking agent, 4-7 parts of a second polymer, 12-14 parts of a liquid electrolyte, and 0.003-0.01 parts of a second initiator.

[0019] The electrolyte layer formed by the cross-linking polymerization reaction is a solid with a certain degree of flexibility, which can be used to manufacture flexible display devices; at the same time, the electrolyte layer has a certain viscosity, which is used for bonding the first substrate and the second substrate, further ensuring the structural stability of the display device.

[0020] In some embodiments of the present invention, the first polymer and the second polymer are chain polymers, branched polymers, or mixtures of chain polymers and branched polymers, which can improve the overall performance of the barrier and the electrolyte layer.

[0021] In some embodiments of the present invention, the chain polymer is polyvinylidene fluoride-hexafluoropropylene or polymethyl methacrylate; the branched polymer is hyperbranched polyester or acrylic-terminated hyperbranched polyester.

[0022] In some embodiments of the present invention, the first crosslinking agent and the second crosslinking agent are polyethylene glycol polymers, polyacrylic acid polymers, or mixtures of polyethylene glycol polymers and polyacrylic acid polymers, which can improve the overall performance of the barrier and the electrolyte layer.

[0023] In some embodiments of the present invention, the liquid electrolyte is an ionic liquid; or the liquid electrolyte comprises a second solvent and a lithium salt.

[0024] In some embodiments of the present invention, the ionic liquid is a 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazoline bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imine salt solution; the second solvent is propylene carbonate or dimethyl carbonate; and the lithium salt is lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imine.

[0025] In some embodiments of the present invention, the first polymer and the second polymer are made of the same material, the first crosslinking agent and the second crosslinking agent are made of the same material, and the first solvent and the second solvent are made of the same material. This avoids the difficulty of material selection caused by using different materials, simplifies the preparation process of the first pre-solution and the second pre-solution, and at the same time ensures that the barrier and electrolyte layer formed after curing have the same material and properties, such as the same flexibility and viscosity.

[0026] In some embodiments of the present invention, the second pretreatment solution further includes, by weight, 0.6-2 parts of deionized water. The deionized water is used to regulate the electrochemical performance of the second pretreatment solution.

[0027] A second aspect of the present invention provides a method for manufacturing a display device, comprising:

[0028] Prepare the first and second pretreatment solutions;

[0029] A plurality of first electrodes are formed on a first substrate; each first electrode is discrete from the other.

[0030] An electrochromic layer is formed on the side of the first electrode opposite to the first substrate;

[0031] Multiple second electrodes are formed on the second substrate; each second electrode is discrete from the other.

[0032] An ion storage layer is formed on the side of the second electrode opposite to the second substrate;

[0033] The first pretreatment solution is printed on either the first substrate or the second substrate.

[0034] The first pretreatment solution is solidified to form a barrier; the barrier forms multiple accommodating spaces;

[0035] A second pretreatment solution is printed in each accommodating space of the substrate;

[0036] The first substrate and the second substrate are attached together so that the ion storage layer and the electrochromic layer are bonded together through the second pretreatment solution.

[0037] The second pretreatment solution is solidified to form an electrolyte layer. Attached Figure Description

[0038] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, the drawings used in the embodiments of the present invention will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0039] Figure 1 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the display device provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 2 A top view of the retaining wall provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 3 A flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 4a This is one of the schematic diagrams of the manufacturing process of the display device provided in the embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 4b This is the second schematic diagram of the manufacturing process of the display device provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Wherein, 1-first substrate, 2-second substrate, 3-barrier, 4-electrochromic device, 41-first electrode, 42-electrochromic layer, 43-electrolyte layer, 44-ion storage layer, 45-second electrode, H-through hole, M1-stencil, M2-stencil. Detailed Implementation

[0045] To make the above-mentioned objects, features, and advantages of the present invention more apparent and understandable, the present invention will be further described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments. However, the exemplary embodiments can be implemented in many forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided to make the present invention more comprehensive and complete, and to fully convey the concept of the exemplary embodiments to those skilled in the art. The same reference numerals in the figures denote the same or similar structures, and therefore repeated descriptions of them will be omitted. Terms describing position and direction in the present invention are illustrative based on the accompanying drawings, but changes can be made as needed, and all such changes are included within the scope of protection of the present invention. The accompanying drawings of the present invention are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent actual proportions.

[0046] Electrochromism is the phenomenon where electrochromic materials undergo stable and reversible color changes under the influence of an applied electric field. Electrochromic display devices made using electrochromic materials have advantages such as no blind angle, wide operating temperature range, low driving voltage, and rich colors.

[0047] Electrochromic display devices typically consist of multiple pixelated electrochromic devices. During manufacturing, baffles are used to separate adjacent electrochromic devices to prevent color crosstalk.

[0048] In current manufacturing processes, electrochromic devices can be fabricated on two separate substrates and then bonded together. The barrier is made of a double-sided adhesive material and requires a protective film. During the film removal process, the height of the barrier becomes inconsistent, resulting in electrolyte leakage between adjacent electrochromic devices when the electrolyte material is filled, causing color crosstalk when the electrochromic device is colored.

[0049] In view of this, the present invention provides a display device and a method for manufacturing the same, wherein the display device uses a novel material to make the retaining wall, which can solve the above problems.

[0050] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional structural diagram of a display device provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] like Figure 1 As shown, the display device provided in the embodiment of the invention includes: a first substrate 1, a second substrate 2, a barrier 3, and a plurality of electrochromic devices 4.

[0052] The first substrate 1 and the second substrate 2 are disposed opposite to each other, serving to support and fix the components. The first substrate 1 and the second substrate 2 are typically rectangular or square in shape, but when applied to irregularly shaped display devices, they can also be circular or other shapes. The first substrate 1 and the second substrate 2 are made of transparent materials such as glass or resin; when applied to flexible display devices, they can also be made of flexible transparent materials.

[0053] The retaining wall 3 is located between the first substrate 1 and the second substrate 2, and is used to support and connect the first substrate 1 and the second substrate 2.

[0054] Figure 2 This is a top view of the retaining wall structure provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] like Figure 2 As shown, the barrier 3 is a grid-like structure with multiple through holes H, so that the barrier 3 together with the first substrate 1 and the second substrate 2 form multiple accommodating spaces for setting the electrochromic device 4.

[0056] The electrochromic device 4 is disposed in the accommodating space formed by the baffle 3, the first substrate 1, and the second substrate 2. The display device provided in this embodiment of the invention includes multiple electrochromic devices 4, each of which is separated by the baffle 3. Each electrochromic device 4 can be colored under the drive of an independent driving signal to display different transparency levels, thereby realizing image display.

[0057] In an embodiment of the present invention, the barrier 3 is formed by a crosslinking polymerization reaction of a pre-prepared first pretreatment solution, wherein the first pretreatment solution includes: a first crosslinking agent, a first polymer, a first solvent and a first initiator.

[0058] In practical implementation, the first pretreatment solution can be uniformly coated onto the first or second substrate using methods such as printing or spraying. Then, ultraviolet light irradiation or heating initiates a cross-linking polymerization reaction in the first pretreatment solution, resulting in solidification and the formation of a barrier. After solidification, the barrier has a fixed shape, is not easily volatilized or dissolved, and can be used to house electrochromic devices. When fabricating electrochromic devices using a layer-by-layer bonding method, the barrier formed by the solidified first pretreatment solution possesses a certain degree of flexibility and viscosity. During bonding, there is no need to separately install a barrier made of double-sided adhesive material, thus avoiding the need for film removal and simplifying the process. This also prevents inconsistent barrier heights, electrolyte leakage, and color crosstalk during coloring caused by electrolyte connections between adjacent electrochromic devices during film removal.

[0059] In embodiments of the present invention, the first crosslinking agent may be a polyethylene glycol polymer, a polyacrylic acid polymer, or a mixture of polyethylene glycol and polyacrylic acid polymers, such as low molecular weight methoxy polyethylene glycol acrylate, poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate, poly(ethylene glycol) dimethacrylate, or a mixture of at least two of these polymers. When the first crosslinking agent is a mixture of polyethylene glycol and polyacrylic acid polymers, polymerization between polyethylene glycol polymers, polymerization between polyacrylic acid polymers, and mutual polymerization between polyethylene glycol and polyacrylic acid polymers can occur during the crosslinking reaction, thereby obtaining more reaction products. By rationally proportioning the polyethylene glycol and polyacrylic acid polymers, the overall performance of the retaining wall can be improved.

[0060] In specific implementation, the first pretreatment solution comprises 8-10 parts by weight of the first crosslinking agent. When the first crosslinking agent is a mixture of polyethylene glycol polymer and polyacrylic acid polymer, the weight ratio of the polyethylene glycol polymer to the polyacrylic acid polymer can be adjusted according to the actual situation and is not limited here.

[0061] In embodiments of the present invention, the first polymer can be a chain polymer, a branched polymer, or a mixture of chain polymers and branched polymers. The cross-linking polymerization of the chain polymer can enhance the strength of the retaining wall; the branched polymer can improve the fluidity of the solution, making it easier to level after printing or spraying the first pretreatment solution. Simultaneously, the cross-linking polymerization of the branched polymer can enhance the flexibility and viscosity of the retaining wall. When the first polymer is a mixture of chain polymers and branched polymers, polymerization between chain polymers, polymerization between branched polymers, and mutual polymerization between chain polymers and branched polymers can occur during the cross-linking polymerization process. By rationally proportioning the chain polymers and branched polymers, the overall performance of the retaining wall can be improved.

[0062] Among them, the chain polymers can be polyvinylidene fluoride-hexafluoropropylene, polymethyl methacrylate, polyethylene oxide, polyvinyl alcohol, etc.; the branched polymers can be hyperbranched polyester or acrylic end-capped hyperbranched polyester, etc.

[0063] In practice, the first pretreatment solution comprises 0-2 parts by weight of the first polymer. When the first polymer is a mixture of chain polymer and branched polymer, the weight ratio of the chain polymer to the branched polymer can be adjusted according to the actual situation and is not limited here.

[0064] In embodiments of the present invention, a solvent with a high boiling point is selected as the first solvent to prevent the first pretreatment solution from evaporating under room temperature or heating conditions, thereby improving the stability of the first pretreatment solution during curing. The first solvent may be acrylate carbonate or acrylic monomers.

[0065] In practice, the first pretreatment solution comprises 8-10 parts by weight of the first solvent. The first solvent can participate in the crosslinking polymerization reaction, thus allowing for a suitable reduction in the weight percentage of the first polymer in the first pretreatment solution.

[0066] In embodiments of the present invention, the first initiator may be a photoinitiator or a thermal initiator, depending on the conditions under which the first pre-solution undergoes a crosslinking polymerization reaction.

[0067] In specific implementation, the first pretreatment solution includes 0.024-0.05 parts by weight of the first initiator, wherein the weight of the first initiator is approximately 0.3%-0.5% of the weight of the first crosslinking agent.

[0068] In embodiments of the present invention, such as Figure 1 As shown, the electrochromic device 4 includes: a first electrode 41, a second electrode 45, an electrochromic layer 42, an ion storage layer 44, and an electrolyte layer 43.

[0069] The first electrode 41 and the second electrode 45 are disposed opposite to each other, wherein the first electrode 41 is located on the side of the first substrate 1 facing the second substrate 2, and the second electrode 45 is located on the side of the second substrate 2 facing the first substrate 1. The first electrode 41 and the second electrode 45 are made of a transparent conductive material, such as indium tin oxide (ITO), etc. A thin film of electrode material can be deposited on the first substrate 1 and the second substrate 2 by means of sputtering deposition or the like, and then the patterns of the first electrode 41 and the second electrode 45 can be formed by means of etching or the like.

[0070] The electrochromic layer 42 is located on the side of the first electrode 41 facing away from the first substrate 1. The electrochromic layer 42 is patterned by depositing an electrochromic material onto the first electrode 41. When a positive voltage is applied, ions enter the electrochromic layer 42, causing it to change color. The material of the electrochromic layer 42 can be inorganic electrochromic materials such as WO3, MoO3, Nb2O5, TiO2, NiO, IrOx, Co2O3, Rh2O3, MnO2, etc.; or organic electrochromic materials such as polythiophene compounds and their derivatives, tetrathiofulvalene, violetin compounds, metal phthalocyanine compounds, etc. In specific implementations, the electrochromic layer 42 can be an inorganic solid electrochromic material with a fast response speed.

[0071] An ion storage layer 44 is located on the side of the second electrode opposite to the second substrate 2. The ion storage layer 44 stores ions and balances the charge. When the electrochromic layer 42 is colored by applying an appropriate positive voltage, the ion storage layer 44 transfers some or all of the ions that can color the electrochromic layer 42 to the electrochromic layer 42, changing the electrochromic layer 42 to a colored state. The ion storage layer 44 can be made of an electrochromic material. Due to the gain / loss of ions, the ion storage layer 44 will undergo a transition between transparent and colored states. Therefore, a suitable material for the ion storage layer 44 can be selected based on the material of the electrochromic layer 42. When the ion storage layer 44 stores a large number of ions that can color the electrochromic layer 42, the ion storage layer 44 should be in a transparent state. When the ion storage layer 44 loses these ions, it gradually transitions to a colored state, thereby improving the coloring efficiency of the electrochromic device.

[0072] The electrolyte layer 43 is located between the electrochromic layer 42 and the ion storage layer 44 and is used to conduct ions. The electrolyte layer 43 can be made of a material that has high conductivity for the relevant ions of the electrochromic layer 42 and the ion storage layer 44 and extremely low conductivity for electrons, thereby ensuring that ions can pass through the electrolyte layer 43 quickly while ignoring electron transfer and improving the coloring efficiency of the electrochromic layer 42.

[0073] In an embodiment of the present invention, the electrolyte layer 43 may be formed by a crosslinking polymerization reaction of a pre-prepared second pre-solution, wherein the second pre-solution includes: a second crosslinking agent, a second polymer, a liquid electrolyte, and a second initiator.

[0074] In practical implementation, the second pretreatment solution can be uniformly filled into the accommodating space formed by the baffle 3 through printing or spraying. Then, ultraviolet light irradiation or heating is used to initiate a cross-linking polymerization reaction in the second pretreatment solution, resulting in curing and forming an electrolyte layer. When using a layer-by-layer bonding method to fabricate an electrochromic device, the second pretreatment solution has a certain degree of fluidity, allowing for rapid leveling during printing or spraying, thus ensuring the uniformity of the electrolyte layer height. This also avoids introducing air bubbles during bonding, which could lead to loose bonding and affect ion transport. Furthermore, because the electrolyte layer is formed by curing the second pretreatment solution, it possesses a certain degree of flexibility and viscosity, making it suitable for the fabrication of flexible display devices and further improving the stability of the bonded display device.

[0075] In embodiments of the present invention, the second crosslinking agent may be a polyethylene glycol polymer, a polyacrylic acid polymer, or a mixture of polyethylene glycol and polyacrylic acid polymers, such as low molecular weight methoxy polyethylene glycol acrylate, poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate, poly(ethylene glycol) dimethacrylate, or a mixture of at least two of these polymers. When the first crosslinking agent is a mixture of polyethylene glycol and polyacrylic acid polymers, polymerization between polyethylene glycol polymers, polymerization between polyacrylic acid polymers, and mutual polymerization between polyethylene glycol and polyacrylic acid polymers can occur during the crosslinking reaction, thereby obtaining more reaction products. By rationally proportioning the polyethylene glycol and polyacrylic acid polymers, the overall performance of the electrolyte layer can be improved.

[0076] In practice, the second pretreatment solution includes 1-2 parts by weight of the second crosslinking agent. When the second crosslinking agent is a mixture of polyethylene glycol polymers and polyacrylic acid polymers, the weight ratio of the polyethylene glycol polymers to the polyacrylic acid polymers can be adjusted according to the actual situation and is not limited here.

[0077] In embodiments of the present invention, the second polymer can be a chain polymer, a branched polymer, or a mixture of chain polymers and branched polymers. The cross-linking polymerization of the chain polymer can enhance the strength of the electrolyte layer; the branched polymer can improve the fluidity of the solution, making it easier to level after printing or spraying the second pretreatment solution. Simultaneously, the cross-linking polymerization of the branched polymer can enhance the flexibility and viscosity of the barrier. When the second polymer is a mixture of chain polymers and branched polymers, polymerization between chain polymers, polymerization between branched polymers, and mutual polymerization between chain polymers and branched polymers can occur during the cross-linking polymerization process. By rationally proportioning the chain polymers and branched polymers, the overall performance of the electrolyte layer can be improved.

[0078] Among them, the chain polymers can be polyvinylidene fluoride-hexafluoropropylene, polymethyl methacrylate, polyethylene oxide, polyvinyl alcohol, etc.; the branched polymers can be hyperbranched polyester or acrylic end-capped hyperbranched polyester, etc.

[0079] In practice, the second pretreatment solution comprises 4-7 parts by weight of the second polymer. When the second polymer is a mixture of chain polymers and branched polymers, the weight ratio of the chain polymers to the branched polymers can be adjusted according to the actual situation and is not limited here.

[0080] In embodiments of the present invention, the liquid electrolyte can be an ionic liquid or a solvent plus lithium salt system. The ionic liquid can be a 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazoline bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imine salt solution, a 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate, or a 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate. The solvent plus lithium salt system can be a propylene carbonate or dimethyl carbonate solvent plus lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imine or lithium perchlorate.

[0081] In practice, the second pretreatment solution comprises 12-14 parts by weight of liquid electrolyte.

[0082] In embodiments of the present invention, the second initiator may be a photoinitiator or a thermal initiator, depending on the conditions under which the second pre-solution is initiated to produce a crosslinking polymerization reaction.

[0083] In specific implementation, the second pretreatment solution includes 0.003-0.01 parts by weight of the second initiator, wherein the weight of the second initiator is approximately 0.3%-0.5% of the weight of the second crosslinking agent.

[0084] In embodiments of the present invention, based on the actual operating voltage of the electrochromic display device, an appropriate amount of deionized water can be added to the solution during the preparation of the second pretreatment solution to adjust its electrochemical performance. For example, when the actual operating voltage of the electrochromic display device is less than 1.3V, 0.6-2 parts by weight of deionized water can be added to the second pretreatment solution to adjust the electrochemical window, while simultaneously reducing the proportion of liquid electrolyte and saving costs.

[0085] In embodiments of the present invention, the first crosslinking agent used to prepare the first pre-solution and the second crosslinking agent used to prepare the second pre-solution can be the same material, the first polymer used to prepare the first pre-solution and the second polymer used to prepare the second pre-solution can be the same material, and the first solvent used to prepare the first pre-solution and the second solvent used to prepare the second pre-solution can be the same material. This avoids the difficulty in material selection caused by using different materials, simplifies the preparation process of the first and second pre-solutions, and ensures that the barrier and electrolyte layer formed after curing have consistency in materials and properties, such as consistency in flexibility and viscosity.

[0086] In a second aspect of the present invention, a method for manufacturing a display device is provided. Figure 3 A flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing a display device according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4a This is one of the schematic diagrams of the manufacturing process of the display device provided in the embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4b This is the second schematic diagram of the manufacturing process of the display device provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0087] like Figure 3 As shown, the manufacturing method of the display device provided in this embodiment of the invention includes the following steps in its specific manufacturing process:

[0088] S101: Prepare the first and second pretreatment solutions;

[0089] S102: A plurality of first electrodes are formed on the first substrate, and each first electrode is discrete from the other;

[0090] S103: An electrochromic layer is formed on the side of the first electrode away from the first substrate;

[0091] S104: A plurality of second electrodes are formed on the second substrate, and each second electrode is discrete from the other.

[0092] S105: An ion storage layer is formed on the side of the second electrode away from the second substrate;

[0093] S106: Print the first pretreatment solution on either the first substrate or the second substrate;

[0094] S107: The first pre-solution is solidified to form a barrier wall, which forms multiple accommodating spaces;

[0095] S108: Print the second pretreatment solution in each accommodating space of the substrate;

[0096] S109: The first substrate and the second substrate are attached together so that the ion storage layer and the electrochromic layer are bonded together through the second pretreatment solution;

[0097] S110: Solidify the second pretreatment solution to form an electrolyte layer.

[0098] In practice, a first pretreatment solution and a second pretreatment solution are first prepared; the first pretreatment solution is used to form a barrier, and the second pretreatment solution is used to form the electrolyte layer in the electrochromic device.

[0099] The following examples illustrate the preparation of the first and second pretreatment solutions.

[0100] Example 1:

[0101] Prepare the first pretreatment solution: By weight, select 10 parts of poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate, 2 parts of polymethyl methacrylate, 8 parts of glycidyl methacrylate, and 0.05 parts of photoinitiator, mix them in a container and seal it. Stir at 50°C for 8 hours until completely dissolved and mixed evenly.

[0102] Prepare the second pretreatment solution: By weight, select 2 parts of poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate, 6 parts of polymethyl methacrylate, 12 parts of 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazoline bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imine salt solution, and 0.01 parts of photoinitiator, mix them in a container and seal it, then stir at 50°C for 8 hours until completely dissolved and mixed evenly.

[0103] Example 2:

[0104] Prepare the first pretreatment solution: By weight, select 8 parts of methoxy polyethylene glycol acrylate, 2 parts of hyperbranched polyester, 10 parts of propylene carbonate, and 0.04 parts of photoinitiator, mix them in a container and seal it, then stir at 50°C for 8 hours until completely dissolved and evenly mixed.

[0105] Prepare the second pretreatment solution: By weight, select 1 part of methoxy polyethylene glycol acrylate, 5 parts of hyperbranched polyester, 14 parts of propylene carbonate, lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide, and 0.005 parts of photoinitiator, mix them in a container and seal it. Stir at 50°C for 8 hours until completely dissolved and mixed evenly.

[0106] Example 3:

[0107] Prepare the first pretreatment solution: By weight, select 4 parts of methoxy polyethylene glycol acrylate, 4 parts of poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate, 1 part of hyperbranched polyester, 1 part of polymethyl methacrylate, 10 parts of propylene carbonate, and 0.04 parts of photoinitiator, mix them in a container and seal it. Stir at 50°C for 8 hours until completely dissolved and mixed evenly.

[0108] Prepare the second pretreatment solution: By weight, select 0.75 parts of methoxy polyethylene glycol acrylate, 0.75 parts of poly(ethylene glycol diacrylate), 2.75 parts of hyperbranched polyester, 2.75 parts of polymethyl methacrylate, 13 parts of propylene carbonate plus lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide, and 0.0075 parts of photoinitiator. Mix them in a container and seal it. Stir at 50°C for 8 hours until completely dissolved and mixed evenly.

[0109] Example 4:

[0110] Prepare the first pretreatment solution: By weight, select 5 parts of methoxy polyethylene glycol acrylate, 4 parts of poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate, 2 parts of polymethyl methacrylate, 9 parts of glycidyl methacrylate, and 0.045 parts of photoinitiator, mix them in a container and seal it. Stir at 50°C for 8 hours until completely dissolved and mixed evenly.

[0111] Prepare the second pretreatment solution: By weight, select 0.75 parts of methoxy polyethylene glycol acrylate, 0.75 parts of poly(ethylene glycol diacrylate), 2.75 parts of hyperbranched polyester, 2.75 parts of polymethyl methacrylate, 13 parts of propylene carbonate plus lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide, and 0.0075 parts of photoinitiator. Mix them in a container and seal it. Stir at 50°C for 8 hours until completely dissolved and mixed evenly.

[0112] Example 5:

[0113] Prepare the first pretreatment solution: By weight, select 7 parts of poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate, 3 parts of methoxy polyethylene glycol acrylate, 5 parts of glycidyl methacrylate, 5 parts of propylene carbonate, and 0.05 parts of photoinitiator, mix them in a container and seal it. Stir at room temperature for 1 hour until completely dissolved and mixed evenly.

[0114] Prepare the second pretreatment solution: By weight, select 2 parts of methoxy polyethylene glycol acrylate, 2 parts of hyperbranched polyester, 2 parts of polymethyl methacrylate, 14 parts of propylene carbonate, lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide, and 0.01 parts of photoinitiator, mix them in a container and seal it. Stir at 50°C for 8 hours until completely dissolved and mixed evenly.

[0115] Example 6:

[0116] Prepare the first pretreatment solution: By weight, select 6 parts of poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate, 3 parts of methoxy polyethylene glycol acrylate, 1 part of polymethyl methacrylate, 10 parts of propylene carbonate, and 0.045 parts of photoinitiator, mix them in a container and seal it. Stir at 50°C for 8 hours until completely dissolved and mixed evenly.

[0117] Prepare the second pretreatment solution: By weight, select 1 part of methoxy polyethylene glycol acrylate, 7 parts of hyperbranched polyester, 12 parts of propylene carbonate, lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide, and 0.05 parts of photoinitiator, mix them in a container and seal it. Stir at 50°C for 8 hours until completely dissolved and mixed evenly.

[0118] After preparing the first and second pretreatment solutions, as follows: Figure 4a and Figure 4b As shown, multiple discrete first electrodes 41 are formed on the first substrate 1 by vacuum deposition, sputtering deposition, printing, spraying, etching, etc. An electrochromic layer 42 is formed on the side of the first electrodes 41 away from the first substrate 1 by vacuum deposition, sputtering deposition, printing, spraying, etching, etc.

[0119] Multiple discrete second electrodes 45 are formed on the second substrate 2 by means of vacuum coating, sputtering deposition, printing, spraying, etching, etc. An ion storage layer 44 is formed on the side of the second electrodes 45 away from the second substrate 2 by means of vacuum coating, sputtering deposition, printing, spraying, etching, etc.

[0120] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4a and Figure 4b As shown, the first electrode 41 is arranged in an array on the first substrate 1, and the second electrode 45 is arranged in an array on the second substrate 2, wherein the positions of the second electrode 45 and the first electrode 41 correspond to each other, with one second electrode 45 corresponding to one first electrode 41. By applying a voltage to the corresponding first and second electrodes to generate an electric field, the switching between transparent and colored states of each electrochromic device can be independently controlled.

[0121] In some embodiments, a first electrode extends along a first direction and is arranged along a second direction on a first substrate to form a plurality of mutually discrete strip electrodes; a second electrode extends along a second direction and is arranged along a first direction on a second substrate to form a plurality of mutually discrete strip electrodes, such that the intersection of the orthographic projections of the first and second electrodes on any substrate coincides with the orthographic projection position of the electrochromic device on that substrate. Since the thickness of the first and second electrodes is typically at the nanometer or micrometer level, and the barrier itself has a certain degree of flexibility and can produce slight deformation, the strip electrodes do not affect the adhesion between the barrier and the substrate. By applying a voltage to the first and second electrodes in a line-by-line scanning manner, an electric field is generated at the location of the target electrochromic device, thereby controlling the switching of each electrochromic device from transparent to colored state. Using a line-by-line scanning method with strip electrodes simplifies the electrode fabrication process, and the same strip electrode shares a single signal line, reducing the number of signal lines.

[0122] Furthermore, such as Figure 4a As shown, in some embodiments, a stencil M1 can be used to shield the electrochromic layer 42 that has been fabricated on one side of the first substrate 1 where the electrochromic layer 42 is formed, and the space for setting the barrier wall is exposed through the opening on the stencil M1. The first pretreatment solution is printed onto the first substrate 1 by printing. After the first pretreatment solution is evenly leveled on the first substrate 1, the first pretreatment solution is irradiated with ultraviolet light to induce a crosslinking polymerization reaction. After the reaction is completed, the first pretreatment solution is solidified to form the barrier wall 3, and the barrier wall 3 and the first substrate 1 form an accommodating space.

[0123] After the barrier wall 3 is fabricated, the stencil M1 is detached, and the stencil M2 is placed over the side of the barrier wall 3 facing away from the substrate 1. The stencil M2 has through holes with a diameter smaller than the opening of the accommodating space at positions corresponding to the accommodating space. By adjusting the diameter of the through holes in the stencil M2, the second pretreatment solution is printed into the accommodating space formed by the barrier wall 3 according to a pre-designed volume. After the second pretreatment solution has leveled within the accommodating space, the stencil M2 is detached, and the second substrate 2 is then bonded to the first substrate 1 so that the ion storage layer 44 and the electrochromic layer 42 are bonded together through the second pretreatment solution. After bonding, the second pretreatment solution is irradiated with ultraviolet light to initiate a cross-linking polymerization reaction. After the reaction is complete, the second pretreatment solution solidifies to form the electrolyte layer 43, thus completing the fabrication of the display device.

[0124] like Figure 4b As shown, in some embodiments, the first pretreatment solution can also be printed onto the second substrate 2 to form a barrier 3. The specific manufacturing process is the same as the above process and will not be described in detail here.

[0125] The structural strength and bonding performance of the display devices in Examples 1-6 were tested. The flexibility and viscosity of the barrier and electrolyte layer both met the requirements. Among them, the display device made using the first and second pretreatment solutions in Example 3 had the most suitable flexibility and viscosity of the barrier and electrolyte layer.

[0126] In the implementation of this invention, the specific steps of the above-mentioned manufacturing method can be adjusted and modified according to the actual situation, and are not limited here. Using the method for manufacturing a display device provided in this embodiment of the invention, a barrier and an electrolyte layer are formed through a cross-linking polymerization reaction between the first and second pretreatment solutions. The barrier and electrolyte layer themselves have a certain degree of flexibility and viscosity, which can be used for bonding the first substrate and the second substrate. This avoids the film-tearing operation required when using double-sided adhesive materials to make barrier walls in related technologies, simplifying the process and improving manufacturing efficiency. It also avoids electrolyte connections between adjacent electrochromic devices caused by inconsistent barrier heights during the film-tearing process, thereby avoiding color crosstalk during coloring. In a first aspect, the present invention provides a display device comprising a first substrate, a second substrate, a barrier wall located between the first substrate and the second substrate, and an electrochromic device located within an accommodating space formed by the first substrate, the second substrate, and the barrier wall. The barrier wall is formed by a cross-linking polymerization reaction and curing after being printed on the substrate with a first pre-solution. The barrier wall itself has a certain degree of flexibility and viscosity, avoiding the film-tearing step required when using a barrier wall made of double-sided adhesive material in related technologies, thus improving manufacturing efficiency. At the same time, it avoids the electrolyte connection of adjacent electrochromic devices caused by inconsistent barrier wall heights during the film-tearing process, thereby avoiding color crosstalk during coloring.

[0127] In a second aspect, the present invention provides a method for manufacturing a display device. The method involves printing a first pretreatment solution onto a first substrate or a second substrate using a printing method. An initiator is used to initiate a cross-linking polymerization reaction, causing the first pretreatment solution to solidify and form a barrier. Further, a second pretreatment solution is printed into the accommodating space formed by the barrier and the substrate. Then, the first substrate and the second substrate are bonded together, and an initiator is used to initiate a cross-linking polymerization reaction, causing the second pretreatment solution to solidify and form an electrolyte layer. The bonding of the first substrate and the second substrate is achieved using the adhesion between the barrier and the electrolyte layer themselves, avoiding the film-tearing operation in related technologies, improving manufacturing efficiency, and preventing electrolyte connection between adjacent electrochromic devices due to inconsistent barrier heights caused by film-tearing, thereby avoiding color crosstalk during coloring.

[0128] Although preferred embodiments of the invention have been described, those skilled in the art, upon learning the basic inventive concept, can make other changes and modifications to these embodiments. Therefore, the appended claims are intended to be interpreted as including both the preferred embodiments and all changes and modifications falling within the scope of the invention.

[0129] Obviously, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations to this invention without departing from its spirit and scope. Therefore, if these modifications and variations fall within the scope of the claims of this invention and their equivalents, this invention also intends to include these modifications and variations.

Claims

1. A display device, characterized in that, include: First substrate; The second substrate is disposed opposite to the first substrate; A barrier is located between the first substrate and the second substrate; The retaining wall has a grid-like structure, and the retaining wall, together with the first substrate and the second substrate, forms multiple accommodating spaces; Multiple electrochromic devices are respectively located within each of the accommodating spaces; The electrochromic device includes: The first electrode is located on the side of the first substrate facing the second substrate; The second electrode is located on the side of the second substrate facing the first substrate; An electrochromic layer is located on the side of the first electrode opposite to the first substrate; An ion storage layer is located on the side of the second electrode opposite to the second substrate; An electrolyte layer is located between the electrochromic layer and the ion storage layer; The barrier is formed by a cross-linking polymerization reaction of a first pretreatment solution; by weight, the first pretreatment solution comprises: 8-10 parts of a first cross-linking agent, 0-2 parts of a first polymer, 8-10 parts of a first solvent and 0.024-0.05 parts of a first initiator; the first polymer is a chain polymer, a branched polymer or a mixture of a chain polymer and a branched polymer.

2. The display device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The first solvent is propylene carbonate or an acrylic monomer.

3. The display device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The electrolyte layer is formed by a cross-linking polymerization reaction of a second pretreatment solution; The second pretreatment solution comprises, by weight, 1-2 parts of a second crosslinking agent, 4-7 parts of a second polymer, 12-14 parts of a liquid electrolyte and 0.003-0.01 parts of a second initiator.

4. The display device as claimed in claim 3, characterized in that, The second polymer is a chain polymer, a branched polymer, or a mixture of a chain polymer and a branched polymer.

5. The display device as claimed in claim 4, characterized in that, The chain polymer is polyvinylidene fluoride-hexafluoropropylene or polymethyl methacrylate; The branched polymer is a hyperbranched polyester or an acrylic-terminated hyperbranched polyester.

6. The display device as claimed in claim 3, characterized in that, Both the first crosslinking agent and the second crosslinking agent are polyethylene glycol polymers, polyacrylic acid polymers, or mixtures of polyethylene glycol polymers and polyacrylic acid polymers.

7. The display device according to any one of claims 3-6, characterized in that, The liquid electrolyte is an ionic liquid; or the liquid electrolyte comprises a second solvent and a lithium salt.

8. The display device as claimed in claim 7, characterized in that, The ionic liquid is a 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazoline bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imine salt solution; The second solvent is propylene carbonate or dimethyl carbonate, and the lithium salt is lithium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide.

9. The display device as claimed in claim 3, characterized in that, By weight, the second pretreatment solution also includes 0.6-2 parts of deionized water.

10. A method for manufacturing a display device as described in any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, include: Prepare the first and second pretreatment solutions; A plurality of first electrodes are formed on a first substrate; Each of the first electrodes is independent of the others; An electrochromic layer is formed on the side of the first electrode opposite to the first substrate; A plurality of second electrodes are formed on the second substrate; each second electrode is discrete from the other. An ion storage layer is formed on the side of the second electrode opposite to the second substrate; The first pretreatment solution is printed on either the first substrate or the second substrate; The first pretreatment solution is solidified to form a barrier. The retaining wall forms multiple accommodating spaces; The second pretreatment solution is printed in each accommodating space of the substrate; The first substrate and the second substrate are attached together so that the ion storage layer and the electrochromic layer are bonded together through the second pretreatment solution; The second pretreatment solution is solidified to form an electrolyte layer.

Images